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♪ With a partridge
in a pear tree ♪

♪ Lots of golden rings ♪

♪ The snow is coming down now
and I know what that means ♪

♪ My true love you're coming
been waiting way too long ♪

♪ Oh those turtle doves now ♪

♪ Are gonna sing
their pretty song ♪

♪ Home and snow
and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪

♪ Stars and bells and candles
have it all up in a bow ♪

♪ Home and snow
and mistletoe-oh-oh ♪

♪ Sweet warm apple cider
and little hearts aglow ♪

♪ Wrap it all up
in a bow-oh-oh ♪

♪ Whoa ♪

♪ Drummers drumming
good songs ♪

♪ Pipers pipin' ♪

♪ Boughs of holly up now ♪

♪ Fa-la-la go trim the tree ♪

♪ Mid-winter at midnight
woodland beauty ♪

♪ Get the wreath and stockings
ring the bells merrily oh ♪

I'm sure, over the years,

a lot of you have heard
that whole writer's rule,

don't write about your life,
because no one cares about that.

But on the same token,
you get that whole

"Write what you know."

So what's the difference?

I think the idea is that,
at a general glance,

our lives are kind of boring.

But it's what we learn
along the way,

in all of those
hundreds of little moments

in our life story,

those things turn out to be
brilliant when put to the page.

So your
Maya Takes The Town books,

those are not at all based
on you?

And why ever
would you think that?

Well, besides
the name similarities,

Maya, Mikaela, I mean,
you both live in the same city,

you're both single,
and you're both holiday-spiced,

latte-loving workaholics,
right?

What is your name, Mr. Back-row?

- Levi McGuire.
- Well, Mr. McGuire...

While I appreciate
your knowledge of my taste

in holiday-spiced lattes
as seen here,

my relationship status
is not public knowledge.

So how do you even know
I'm single?

Um, are you not?

The character in my books, Maya,

is still single, yes.

But who knows,

that could always change in
the last book. Guess we'll see.

Now I think that does it
for our writer's workshop.

Anyone else have any questions?

Okay, great.
Well, happy holidays.

And thank you so much
for coming. Thank you.

Mikaela, hi, I...

Sorry, I-I don't mean to pry,
but I had to ask.

I mean, what's the hold-up
with the book?

Everyone's dying to read.

It's, um,
it's still in the works, so...

- May I ask you what it's about?
- Actually, no.

That is top secret information,
but rest assured,

it will be out very soon.

Uh, Mr. McGuire, my agent Gigi,
and my assistant Keifer.

Nice to meet you both.

And I'm so glad to hear
that you're almost done.

I mean, I know how anxious
fans have been.

Yes, yes.
Thank you for the reminder.

Yeah, so I was wondering
if I could ask you

a few questions, maybe pick
your brain a little bit,

about your mother's renowned
old holiday writers' retreat.

Are you, like,
some kind of reporter?

No, no-not exactly.
I'm, I write non-fiction.

I'm more so just a really big
fan of her works.

I mean, she was brilliant,
especially in her last book.

Well, thank you. I, um...

Actually, she's super busy
finishing the book still,

but leave your card
on the credenza if you like.

And please do grab a bag
of yummy vegan sugar cookies

on your way out.

Right. Okay.

- Happy holidays.
- Happy holidays!

- Merry Christmas!
Happy holidays.

Hey, uh, you should think about
reviving those retreats.

From what I've heard,
they were something special.

Um, I cannot believe the nerve.

I think he was cute.

And it kinda seemed to me
like he was flirting.

Oh!

Well, he was right
about one thing.

A lot of people are asking
about this book,

even the publishers are
calling me every other day now.

Yeah, I know, and trust me, I
have been going back and forth

over and over
about the last 50 pages.

I think you just need to decide
on an ending.

- Maybe one with Ben, hm?
- No.

Maya cannot end up with Ben.
I don't care what the fans want.

Maybe you just need a break,
to take some time off

for the holidays,
clear your head.

It's going to be fine. I'm going
to finish it soon, I promise.

Great, just go home
where there are no distractions

and figure it out, hm?

This workshop was good for you,

and now it's time
to get back to Maya.

Anyway, I have to run now.

I have a holidate with a hunky
nonprofit owner tonight,

so I have to go buy
something conservative.

It's gonna be great, all right?
Just write it.

Merry Christmas!

- Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!

Decline all holiday invites
and anything holiday-related

I have left.
I have got to figure this out.

Got it.

Hey, dad.

Is that my beautiful,
successful star of a daughter?

More like
your down-trodden daughter

at the moment.
What are you up to?

I'm making a little steak
and stir-fry for the last

of my guests
before they head out tomorrow.

Mm. Steak and stir-fry.
Sounds yummy.

It is, and I hope
you're doing more for dinner

than that tofu takeout
and the glass of pinot noir.

Not everyone can cook
like you, dad.

Well, then you need to get home,
so I can

feed you good and proper.

Yeah. Um, that's actually why
I was calling.

I think I might need to stay
home a bit longer for work.

Maybe you need to just come home

and work out here at the lake
like your ma used to.

Cured her
writer's block every time.

Funny enough, this guy there
today at the workshop

suggested that I revive mom's
old holiday writers' retreats.

That's not the worst idea
in the world.

What? Daddy, no!

- That's ridiculous!
- Why is it ridiculous?

We can do it here at the chalet
like your ma used to.

Oh, and you would be
a great host.

But, dad...

that was mom's thing.

And it can be your thing.

Just think about it, will you?

Love you. Hope to see you soon.

Okay, I actually have no idea
what I'm doing here,

but I am going to try to revive

my mother's annual
holiday writers' retreats.

What? That's amazing, Mik. When?

This next coming Monday,
I think?

Wow! Okay.

So we have a lot of work to do.

Yes. Exactly. That we do!

But we are both single
and have no lives.

So, are you with me?

More than any man
I've ever loved.

Wonderful!
- Any pre-reqs?

Nope, just resume
and cover letter

on why
they should get the invite.

- Okay.
- Oh!

And if Gigi calls, not a word.

Copy that.

- I am the face of silence.
- You know what?

Maybe this is exactly
what I needed after all.

- I'm feeling inspired already.
- Aww!

Okay, we got work to do.
Let's go.

So definitely Sharon Samuels.

She's a great writer and she's
working on a holiday cookbook.

- Total shoe-in, right?
- Yup. Sharon Samuels is in.

Who else?

Uh, I know you weren't crazy
about this one,

but I feel like
Olive Olsen is a must.

Keifer, I told you
she's difficult.

And the only reason you want her

is because
you love her musicals.

And that is not a good enough
reason to invite her.

She's writing
a new holiday musical!

Hello, relevant.
- Okay.

I do like that, sure, but...

Plus, she even offered to plug
your retreat on her next

musical's press tour
right here in her letter. Aww...

Yeah, providing it's a success.

But what if she hates the
retreat and bashes it instead?

Mikaela, you are New York Times'
bestselling book author.

I wouldn't worry about it.

Plus, look at all these
applications we got.

These are more
than just your mother's fans.

They're your contemporaries, and
now they want your inspiration.

Well, good, because I'm
counting on this inspiring me

the way it did my mother
as well.

If this retreat doesn't cure
my block,

nothing will.

I have complete faith,

but we still need to choose
two more scribes,

besides Olive Olsen, of course.

Oh, actually,
we just need one.

I told an old family friend

who works for my dad
that he could have a spot.

He's trying to write
his very first screenplay.

Oh! Cool!
That sounds right up my alley.

I think you two
will get along great.

Uh-huh.

Okay, um,
how about your inspiration

for this whole retreat,
Mr. Backseat Buddy?

How about not a chance?

- Mikaela, just hear me out.
Hm?

This guy is a great
published non-fiction writer

and he even edits.

Dabbles in political writing
and some biography pieces.

Oh, he's kind of a genius.

Okay, just,
let me see the resume.

Mm-hmm. Not bad.

Still a no!

- Face of silence, remember?

Uh, mm.

Tracy, hi.

So did you get that interview

with Ms. Leighton
for that big holiday piece

you promised me at the Happy?

I left my card.
I'm just waiting for a call.

The holidays aren't
waiting for her to call

you back.

Did you heard
that she's going to revive

her mother's old retreat?

I did, yes.
I applied last night.

Just crossing
all my fingers now.

You can't write a retrospect
with your fingers crossed.

Get over there
and make sure you get a spot.

This is exactly the angle
that we need.

The Christmas Queens'
bestselling author's daughter

revives a legacy.

See, Levi? It's practically
written itself already.

I hear you. I will get us that
in-depth biography you need.

Promise.

All right,
this retreat is officially on.

Oh, and I almost forgot,
gift shop up at the lake wants

to know if the book signing
is still on for tomorrow.

I guess, I just can't believe
they still wanna have a signing

of my book
that's two years old already.

Oh, come on.

It's your hometown.
All of your biggest fans.

You're practically a legend
up there.

And if they're not getting
a new book,

more signings of the old one
will do.

You're wrong.
Maya is the legend.

She's the one
they keep coming back for.

And after this delay,
I'm surprised

they don't all hate Mikaela
by now.

No.

- Hi there.
Hi.

Mikaela, hello.
Um, may I come in?

Mr. McGuire, back again already,
though I can't imagine why.

Uh, well,
I saw that you're hosting

this incredible holiday retreat
this weekend like I suggested,

and I was just curious
why I didn't get an in...

I mean, you-you did get
my application?

Yes, I'm aware that you applied,
but, Mr. McGuire, we can't jus--

Levi is fine.

Okay, so then let me ask you.

Levi, have you even read
one of my books?

I-I didn't know
I was required to be a fan.

You're just a fan
of my mother's work then.

I-I do appreciate
her works, yeah.

So then what you applied for

is more intel on my late mother,

rather than the actual retreat.

That's not true.
Look, I am in awe of you both.

I mean, yes, your mother's
retreat is, well, historical.

What writer wouldn't leap
at a shot to attend?

My mother started this retreat
not only to help cure

seasonal writer's block,
but even more so

to help fiction writers
expand their creative horizons.

It wasn't made to give
some non-fiction writer

material for his next satirical essay.

I wanna prove to myself
that I'm more than all that.

Heck, I'll even come help people
with their edits

if you need me to. I mean...

Please, I-I'm begging you.

T-this'd be a dream come true,
and it's my only Christmas wish.

I'll think about it, all right?

So that means you have a spot?

I might have a spot.

Right. Okay. Thank you, really.

Well, okay. Buh-bye.

- I'm gonna leave.
Yeah, okay, buh-bye.

See you, man.

- Hey, hey!
- Oh, Mitchy!

You always have this, like,
Hollywood glow about you.

- How do I get some of that?
- Oh, stop.

The only thing glowing is
the shimmer in my foundation,

which trust me,
is hiding all the bags

that I'm rocking under my...

Oh, please.

Give me all of that glow,
because you are a goddess.

Okay, okay, coming from
your handsome, flawless face?

- I'll take it.
- And I'm gonna take that.

Oh, thank you.

So you excited?

Are you kidding me?
I am thrilled!

And thank you, by the way,
for reviving the retreat,

for letting me join.

Your mom would be
so proud of you.

Well, I hope so.

I hope that this retreat
can do her

the slightest bit of justice.

Uh, but, hey, you need
to let me pay for joining.

I'm not even an accomplished
writer like the others are.

I'm not gonna have anything
to contribute.

Accomplishment and contributions
are relative, Mitchy.

You are a brilliant
undiscovered writer. No.

And this whole retreat

is in the gift
of the season of giving,

so it is free of charge
to all of our guests,

just the way
that my mom started it.

Well, I'm still gonna take
your bag up to your room

because I've got a job to do.

Okay. Thank you.

Oh, it is so good to be home!

Oh, and something smells
so good.

If that is my dad's turkey
po' boys, I am gonna flip!

Come on! Dad!

So, what do you think?

Dad, you cannot
make these again.

I mean, I want you to,
but you just can't.

I'll make the healthy stuff
for your guests, too,

but I had to have your fave
for your arrival.

Not my fault you didn't
come home Turkey Day.

Oh, I'm sorry.

You know, coming up
with an ending

put a ton of pressure on me.

My editor said
that if I don't finish soon,

she's gonna drop me.

So what? You haven't found
the proper ending.

Your fans want it to be perfect,
don't they?

Yeah, I know, but at this point

I'm just not sure
I'm gonna be able to find

the happy ending
everyone's looking for.

Well, you know
what your mom used to say.

"Find your story
in magic moments."

Right.

Yeah, well...

I just haven't had a lot
of those in a while, you know?

Maybe that's why you're here.

Oh, don't think
I haven't thought about

my daybed book corner.

I plan on taking full advantage,
just like in school.

Good. Now how about real life?

You're not seeing anyone,
are you?

I don't know, dad. Are you?

Fine.
Let's not talk about it.

Thank you so much,
and happy holidays!

I'd like to get signed, please.

No? I can't get signed?

What are you doing here, Levi?

I told you.
I came to get signed.

You said you haven't even read
one of my books.

Now's a good a time as any
to start, right? I mean...

I've got nothing better
going on.

This is the fourth
in the series.

And it's a year old,
and by now you should be

having a new book signing,
yet here we are.

- I mean, who's counting?
- Okay.

And what would you like it
to say?

- Dear Levi, Merry Christmas.
- Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm.

And since you jingled
all the way here,

you are now invited
to my retreat.

Oh, but that would be
a disingenuous signing.

Well, let's make it ingenuous.

Okay, then...

Dear Levi, Merry Christmas.

And since you jingled
all the way here,

on your way out, don't let
the door hit you on your rear.

Mikaela.

Next!

Hi! Which one would you like?

Oh, wonderful.

Do you really think
that reading my book

is gonna get you
a spot on the retreat?

You know, I hear fans are hoping
for her to end up with Ben,

this guy
she's on and off again with.

But he's clearly wrong for her.

- Wow.
- See.

You really are a fast reader.

Aren't all writers
fast readers?

- I'm not.
- Oh.

See, I'm learning so much
already.

You are very lucky that
I never filled that last spot

and I am feeling filled
with the holiday spirit today.

W-wait. D-does that mean I'm in?

Let's just call it a trial phase
in the event

that I don't find out
you're crazy in the next day.

Sweet!
That'll do just fine for me.

So! Whoa, where are we headed?

Don't you need to go home, pack?

It's two days
before the retreat.

Nope. I brought all my stuff
with me. I'm ready to rock.

Ugh. Okay, well,
I guess you can follow me.

- Here you go.
- Thank you.

You're very welcome.
Here, darling.

- Thanks, dad.
- Come on.

So, Levi, um,
you live in LA, too, right?

Yes, sir. I'm on the East Side.

- Silver Lake.
- Silver Lake?

Oh, Mikaela's just up the way
in Toluca Lake, right?

And, uh, what kind of writing
do you do?

Oh. I'm a yawn.

- I write non-fiction.
- You kidding?

Back in school
I wrote non-fiction.

- He writes non-fiction.
- Oh, wow.

You ever do any true crime?

No crimes here,
except this cocoa.

- He likes my cocoa.
- Aww.

I'd love to read your writing
someday.

- Of course. It'd be my pleasure.
Fantastic.

- Mm.
- Don't touch that.

Hickory-smoked ham.

And a cranberry
cornmeal dressing.

- Mm...
- That smells amazing!

Feel free to park that
right over here.

And I wasn't expecting a full-on
holiday menu this weekend.

Oh, I love hosting.
It was what I was born to do.

And this casserole is proven
to cure writer's block, right?

Yes, it is.
- Ah. So it is writer's block.

That's why you haven't finished.

Fine. Yes.
That is why I am not done.

I just don't know
how it ends yet.

Well, maybe ask Maya
what she wants.

- Ask Maya what she wants?
- Yeah. You should talk to her.

She's in my head, Levi.

Exactly.

So, uh, when do
the other guests arrive?

Uh, Keifer arrives tomorrow
afternoon with Ms. Olsen,

and the others arrive
Monday morning.

Wonderful.
We will have the rooms ready.

Thank you. Ugh.

It is going to be
an exciting week.

- Dude.
Ham, anyone?

What do you want, Maya?

What's next?

- How's the food?
- It's good.

Great. Good morning.

- Morning!
- Want some breakfast?

Oh, I am still stuffed
from last night's feast,

but I will take this coffee.

- Oh, okay, where are you headed?
- Oh, into town.

I have to do some last-minute
Christmas shopping

before our guests arrive
for tomorrow's retreat.

I'm-I'm done here.
I can take you.

I kind of need a gift myself.

All right, then.
Uh, are you ready now?

Sure. I just need to get
my jacket.

Irv, thank you
for this yummy breakfast.

- You got it.
- Yeah.

Did he just call you Irv?

Uh, yeah. He just called me Irv.

Oh, no.

Shopping for a new boyfriend?

Anyway, didn't you claim

you knew I was single
at my workshop?

- Nah. Just a good guess.
- Why?

Well, I mean,
the engagement you broke off

with the basketball player
was kind of a public affair.

- That was a year and a half ago.
- I know.

Then you finished the book.

It came out,
and then you toured.

Wow! You just know so much
about my life, huh?

I don't know
why you two broke up.

Good, because that doesn't
concern you.

Is that why Maya's still single?

Is Ben sort of based on her ex?

I already told you.

Maya's not based on my life.

So, what kind of chocolates
did you get?

They're not for me,
they're farewell gifts

for all of you writers
at the end of the retreat.

Yeah, but surely
you got something

you think someone would like,

which means you probably like
them, too. So what'd you get?

Caramel pecan milk chocolates,

dark chocolate
peppermint bark, and--

- Cinnamon-spiced truffles.
- How'd you know?

Well, those are
my favorites, too.

Also, I heard you
talking to the chocolatier.

So, we finally agree
on something.

Wow. Who'd have thought?

You know, I always knew
I had good taste,

but you just confirmed it,
though.

But I also
just proved you wrong.

- How so?
- Maya doesn't like chocolate.

And I do. So see? There you go.
She's more of a candy girl.

So, there goes your theory
about me being her.

All right, maybe.

Or maybe Maya hasn't had
good chocolate yet.

Okay. Maybe.

Anyway, all this talk
about sweets has me hungry.

Is there any good places
around here for us to eat?

I think I might know a place.

- Hm.
- Come on. Up and up we go.

- Thank you.
Thank you, man.

Thanks. Mm.

Thanks for the help
with the gift.

I am the worst shopper on Earth,

and my grams has,
well, everything.

Well, it's nice of you
to think of her. You close?

Oh, yeah.
She raised me, actually.

My parents, well,
they passed away

when I was a freshman
in high school.

Oh. Wow. I'm...
I'm so sorry.

My grams was great, though.

She let me get away
with anything

as long as I got good grades.

She still says
I'm the center of her universe.

Oh, well,
I can definitely see that.

- She live in LA?

Yup. Um,
off of 3rd and Robertson.

She's in this really fancy
assisted-living situation.

Has all these
bridge-club friends.

They're throwing
a whole Christmas party.

It's gonna be lit, and I'm not
just talking about the lights.

Sounds like a fun party.

I had to forfeit all of mine

because I need to focus
on the book situation.

Right. The situation. Hm.

♪ Season to be ♪

This chestnut soup, wow!

It was my mother's favorite.

Actually, this was
her favorite restaurant up here,

so I'm glad we got to come.

Aww. I didn't realize.
She ever do any writing here?

Oh, yeah.
In fact, this was her table.

- What?
- Yeah.

- This is insanely surreal.
- Yes.

So you are, like, really
a fan of my mother?

- Mm.
- Huh. Funny.

You didn't strike me
as the romantic-drama type.

Well, your mother's books
were so much more than that.

It's like comfort food,

but intensely profound.

They just have,
they just have a epic feel.

I hope that I can be
half as good as her one day.

She was...

She was the best.

♪ 'Tis the season ♪

Well, based on the reading
I've done the last few days,

I'd say
you're not too far behind her.

Good afternoon.
You must be, um...

Keifer.
I'm Mikaela's assistant.

Ah, Keifer, Mitchell.

I usually fix things
around here,

but I think I've been promoted
to greeter duty.

Oh, well,
seasons greetings, then.

Look at this place!

Be still my heart.

Oh, I love the wilderness.

Well, Mitchell,
this is Ms. Olive Olsen.

You might know her
from her musicals.

- Oh.
Olive!

It is so nice
to finally meet, meet you.

I am a, a big fan
of your work.

- Oh, well, likewise.
- Yeah.

Your books are top tier,
and that's why we're here.

- And you are?

- Hi. Levi McGuire. Oh.
- Hi.

Non-fiction writer
in fictional recovery.

Oh, but funny.

- So, who'd like some tea?
- Me!

Oh, well, only if we can
spill the tea at tea-time.

All right.
Well, let's see what we can do.

- Right.

Thank you.
Yeah.

Whoa.

Wow! And you chose her over me?

Maybe you'll learn
a thing or two.

So, Mikaela,
I almost forgot to ask.

How is the book
coming along, then?

Mm. Probably not the best
question for the dinner table.

Or any other table.

Actually, it's fine,

because last night

I started working
on the second half of my book.

I mean, I don't know where
it's going, but it's going.

- Aww, Mik, that's great news!

Yeah. Please, do tell us more.

And please tell me
she ends up with that

sweet hunk of a doctor, Ben.

Mm, I'm not so sure she will.

Oh. Okay. Well, uh...

I guess not every book
needs a happy ending, does it?

Or maybe
the ending will be happy

and happiness
is just perspective.

That's silly.

If not Ben, then who does
she fall in love with?

Does she need to find love
in the end?

- Is that like a requirement?
- No.

But I guess
if it's just left open-ended,

we can all just assume
it's Ben, right?

Like a kinda choose-
your-own-adventure ending?

Well, cheers,
to choosing your adventure!

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

There you go. Oh, didn't get ya.

Oh.

And as Maya pulled in
past the dilapidated

welcome sign to her
quaint little hometown again

for the first time
in over ten years,

she pulled on to the shoulder
of the road

and climbed out
into the falling snowflakes,

glistening all around her

like a thousand tiny memories
of her childhood.

Then she spun around,
welcoming them in

to rain and melt
upon her open arms.

Good morning and welcome,
Sharon.

It is so wonderful
to have you here.

And my dad is a huge fan
of your cookbooks,

so it is lovely to have you.

Well, thank you
for having me here.

And you know what,
I happen to be a huge fan

of your mother's work as well.

I mean, this retreat, I mean,

what an amazing legacy

for her to leave
such a beautiful black woman.

And speaking of you, young lady,

I am a huge fan
of your work as well.

I've read every one
of your books,

and I am particularly excited
about this next one.

Wow. Thank you. Coming
from you, I'm, I'm flattered.

- Oh. It's okay.
- Oh.

And this is my assistant,
Keifer.

And he will help you
with your things.

Hi, so nice to meet you. How was
your drive up from San Diego?

Nice to meet you, too,
and thank you very much.

Well, the drive,
it was just beautiful.

It has been such a long time
since I've seen snow.

Wow! My gracious!

This place is even more magical
than I imagined.

- Here.
- Here you go.

- Yeah.

Well, good morning, everyone.
This is Sharon.

Sharon, Olive, Levi, Mitchell,

and, of course,
my father, Irving.

Ah. Thank you.
Ah, welcome, guests!

Uh, as most of you know,
I will be your host

for the next three days, so if
there's anything that you need,

please do not hesitate to ask

unless it's what time
Santa stops by Christmas Eve.

That is top-secret information.

He usually reserves that one
for the visiting kids.

As well as the adults,
because we are never too old

to believe in Santa
and a little Christmas magic.

- True, true.
- Now, please have a seat.

- Dig in and enjoy the food.
- Wow.

Oh, um, may I help you
with your coat?

Oh, thank you.
- Of course.

You know what,
I really have to say that

this cranberry baked oatmeal

is really something special.

Oh, thank you. Um, coming
from you, that means everything.

And, hey, if you give me the
secret recipe of one of yours,

I will definitely give you
the secret recipe for that.

Okay. All right, thank you.

- You got yourself a deal.
- Okay.

Well, maybe we should start
by introducing ourselves.

Maybe everyone go around and
share why they are here today.

And, Sharon,
would you like to go first?

Oh. Uh, sure, okay.

Hi. Sharon Samuels.

My favorite thing to do is cook.

Yes, my, my mother,
she was this amazing Creole cook

and she ran her own restaurant
in New Orleans

for most of her life,
so naturally,

I became quite
the adventurous cook myself.

Right, so I decided,
you know, why not?

Why not write our family's very
first Creole Christmas cookbook?

Right, and then, but then,
then I thought, you know what,

these recipes,
they, they really need to embody

the, the spirit of the season.

So, here I am.

- Wow.

Ooh-ooh, me next, me next!

I am here because I am still,

still, uh, two songs short
of my new musical,

and I just really needed
to escape the Hollywood

holiday bustle,
which I normally live for,

um, to focus and finish it.

Well, seems like
you've come to the right place.

I think I am.

And now, um, Levi.

Okay. I write non-fiction.

I started in journalism.
Sometimes political satire.

Sometimes bios, edit.
Copy edits.

Boring things float my boat.

- Yeah.
Okay, great.

And my little Mitchell.

Hello, my name is Mitchell.

I work here,
so feel free to still call me

when your hot water
goes out, uh...

Mikaela was so gracious
for letting me join you guys

as I am
an aspiring screenwriter.

I'm still working
on my first script,

uh, rewriting it and rewriting
it and rewriting it,

so I'm hoping with this retreat,
it will help me finish it.

Keifer, would you like to share
something about yourself?

Yes, I am also on the job
as everyone knows,

um, but I'm also stellar
with creative development

and planning
to partake in the festivities.

And I'm also here to help
you guys hone your craft, so...

Also I've worked
in script development

and I would really like
to take a look at your script.

Wow! Uh, can I think about it?

- Sure.
Yes.

But let's remember
what this retreat is about.

You're here to bare
your creative writing souls

and get back to why
you fell in love with writing

in the first place,
so, with that being said,

at noon we will be meeting
in the sunroom

for our first retreat workshop.

Okay, so do not forget
to bring your journals.

- Okay.
- All right. Great.

Gigi, hi, sorry
I missed your call earlier.

- We were having breakfast.
- Well, hello. How's the retreat?

-Uh, wait, how did you...
I'm at your office.

I was sitting at your computer,
going through your inbox, duh.

Look, I know it sounds crazy,

but I've already started
getting all new ideas

since I've gotten here.

Any ideas for a new editor?

Because Sabrina is
officially out, and I think that

your publishing deal isn't too
far behind her at this point.

If Sabrina has to move on,
I get it.

But I really think
that this retreat

is going to be good for me.

And I promise,
I will have something

for the publishers
to look at soon.

Fine, before the ball drops
on my life and your career,

come New Year's Eve, hm?
I'm counting on you.

Who here is ready
for some of my creative cocoa?

Guaranteed to ignite the imagination.

- Wow!
- That's nice.

- Thank you.
- Thank you.

Excuse me,
I'm gonna get lunch started.

- Aww, thank you, dad.
- All right.

Wow! I'm feeling
creative already.

So are we ready
to get started then?

So what is our line-up
of events, anyhow?

Yes, so today we start

with our Two Turtledove Tales

and tomorrow will be

our Prancer's
Fireside Poetry Hour

and on our last day
we will have

our Jack Frost's Frozen
Freehand Writers' Challenge.

Sounds like
we got our work cut out for us.

- I may need more cocoa.

Don't worry, it won't be
all work and no play

because true to the season,
we will be hosting

our 'Twas The Treasure Hunt

Before Christmas Event
Wednesday night.

Ooh! Exciting!
I live for the hunt.

Oh, and lastly,
if you don't already have plans

and you wanna stay
for Christmas Eve,

my dad makes a mean feast
for Christmas Eve.

So you are all welcome.

- Yes!
- That's very cool.

Okay, so let's get started
on our first workshop.

Two Turtledove Tales
is something we created

to get that creative cocoa

flowing freely
for this retreat.

I challenge each of you
to write not one,

but two short stories,

about two characters
in the same scenario.

It can be any genre,
but each story will be told

from each character's
perspective.

Can be first or third-person
narratives, doesn't matter.

What does matter
is that we're able to see

two versions of one story

through
two very different lenses.

♪ Alone ♪

♪ I hope you know ♪

♪ I've been
counting down days ♪

♪ Till you're in my arms
and I'm home ♪

♪ Yeah I'm getting
all the presents ♪

♪ Rudolph will be jealous ♪

♪ Lighting the tree
and we can dance ♪

♪ Kiss you in the moonlight
holding you so tight ♪

♪ Yeah I'm comin' home
tonight ♪

♪ I'm gonna be with you
for Christmas ♪

♪ Ain't no way
I'm gonna miss this ♪

♪ Baby wait up for me ♪

♪ Wait up for me me ♪

♪ I'm gonna be with you
for Christmas ♪

♪ You're at the top
of my wish list ♪

♪ Baby wait up for me
♪ Wait up for me ♪

Hey! Figured I shouldn't eat
all our chocolate alone.

Did I catch you mid-sentence?

Thank you. You caught me
at the end of a paragraph.

Impeccable timing.

So are you done
with your story or what?

Actually, I had to fake a break.

Olive wanted to swap stories,
and I think it was

just an excuse to sit
next to me, I-I think.

Well, she is a beautiful,
smart, strong woman.

Take it as a compliment.

Only problem is, between us,

I am, sadly,
not a fan of musicals.

Ah. Mm. Oh.

Sunken before you even set sail?

And also story of my life
in relationships, actually.

Let me guess, you're the kind
of guy who falls for women

who want more from you
than you're ready to give.

N-nah, I actually fall for women

whose emotions are awake,
yet unavailable.

So when was
your last sunken ship?

Last date?
Ever so occasionally.

Last relationship?

- Five years ago.
- Yikes.

Ended so badly that it warranted
a half decade worth of repairs.

But even that one
never met my grams.

Oh, well, maybe
she should have met your grams

'cause then
she would've told you that

she was all wrong for you,
you think?

Touche. You could be right.

All right,
I spilled my heart to you.

Your turn.

- My turn to what?
- You gotta tell me.

Why the break-up with
the tall hunky, B-ball boy?

He loved me
when things were good.

Like, a lot.

And things were good

until my mother passed.

And he just, he just couldn't
handle me at my worst.

Well, I guess
it's better to know now

than ten years
down the line, huh?

Because if he can't handle
the first worst moment,

then what about the rest? 'Cause
life's full of those roadblocks.

Yeah. Well, I thought
the same thing.

That's why I ended it.

- I just need someone that--
- Gets it?

Ooh. Ah.

So how's your two turtledove
tales coming along then?

- My turtledove tales?
- Uh-huh.

I am in the middle
of finishing my book,

or trying to, at least.

And Maya is finally headed
towards the finish line,

just not sure
where she is headed exactly.

Mm, what is she doing
at the moment?

- I'm not telling.
- Oh, come on. Tell me.

Ugh, fine.

She's headed home
for the holidays.

Oh, not unlike her author, huh,

who is nothing like her
whatsoever.

Okay, fine, yes, of course!

There are parallels, of course,

but mostly it's because it was
time for her to come home.

She had talked about it
way too much.

You know, I am currently reading
the digital version

of the first book now,
and I gotta say,

what happened
to that Jerome guy?

That civil attorney
who she always fights with.

Jerome? Oh, yeah.
- Mm-hmm.

Yeah, he was in and out
of the first three books,

but when she started working
in divorce,

there just wasn't much
of a need for him anymore.

Too bad,
'cause I liked her for him.

Wondering what
he's doing lately.

No idea.

And I'm not sure
I like him for her.

- Oh.
- But maybe I'll ask him. Hm.

- Okay.

There it is. Yup.

- Oh, hey.
- Wow! What is all this?

This is my dark chocolate
Chex Mix.

Wouldn't have got chocolates
in town

had we known you were baking.

Oh, well, this is for all

the kids down at the theater

doing a dress rehearsal

for A Christmas Carol.

- You have to try these, though.
- Oh, yes.

There you go.

- Well? Yeah?
- Mm-hmm.

This is dangerous.

His entire menu is.
Uh, can we help?

Yeah, let's put this
in some bags.

Ugh.

I always knew we were gonna
have another great writer

in the family
just like her mother,

even when she was a kid.

- How'd you know?
- Well...

She used to sneak into her
mother's office, late at night,

and not only read the books
she was too young to read,

but she'd also read
her mother's book.

And back then Tanya was
still typing her books out

on an old-school typewriter,
and she kept the pages

in a thick folder on the desk.

But we knew she was sneaking in
because in the morning,

some of the pages had a little
fold on them, not so subtle.

I thought
I was being surreptitious.

- Sadly, you still think you are.
So what about you?

When did you know
you were gonna be a writer?

Actually, it was in third grade
when we lost our family dog.

Hm, Jessie. I was crushed.

We had a writing assignment
and I had to write a eulogy

for the dog,
a long, emotional one

about her life and her legacy.

So, my third-grade teacher
called my parents and said,

"This kid needs to write.
This is his calling."

So my parents, they got me this
box-looking word processor,

and I just started
writing everything. Well...

I still got that story
of Jessie somewhere, though.

Well, I would pay good money
to read that story now.

Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't notice.
Is it 4:00 already?

I have to go and start dinner
for the rest of the crew.

Well, I can go into town
and drop these off for you.

Could you do that for me? It's
not gonna interrupt you, is it?

- No, no, no. We'd be happy to.
Thank you.

Uh, don't you have a story
to finish?

Oh, I'm-I'm as fast of a writer
as I am a reader.

- All right.
Thank you. All right.

- Can you get the door?
- I got it.

Oh.

Let's try the other side. Yeah.

- Oh.
- Oh, no! My book!

Oh, no. Oh, no.

I can't believe
they flew so far.

Sheesh! Why do you still
print your pages?

Seems a little outdated,
doesn't it?

Hey, I use 100%

post-consumer recycled paper,
chlorine-free, okay, buddy?

Yeah, I just,
just don't see the need for it.

I don't know, it-it's just
something romantic,

you know, having a hard copy,
and I can easily skim through it

and make changes and notes.

Maybe it reminds me
of when my mom

would write her books and I
would sneak in and read them.

Guess that's a good reason,
you know?

I'm jealous of the relationship
you have with your parents.

And the whole writing thing...

My grandpa, he didn't want me
to be a writer.

He said it wasn't practical.

Yeah, well, that's not uncommon.

I hear that a lot
at writers' workshops.

And to be honest, you know,
some, uh, writers

could use their parents' advice,
but you, you're a great writer.

- Thank you.
- Well...

You know, this was
my mom's favorite spot

to write on the property.
Her own little secret garden.

- It's beautiful.
Yeah.

When I was little,
she used to say

that if you listened
closely enough,

you can hear the little
woodland creatures and fairies,

and they will give you
magical ideas for free.

And so I would be out here

waiting for hours, listening.

But sometimes, sometimes

I thought I could hear them.

Did she have, like,
a place she sat?

Oh, yeah,
there's a rocking bench there

and a little tea table there

and a little bird feeder
and water feeder there.

- Yeah.
- What happened to it?

I don't know.
I, I guess it just got old.

- You know, my dad replaced it.
- Hm.

I, I think it hurt him
to come out here, so...

He prefers the lakeside
where we spread her ashes.

You know, it's crazy to think

that fairies and woodland
critters are responsible

for the books we've come to love
over the years.

Hm.

Yoo-hoo! Hello, you two!

- Oh. Hm.
- What?

- What is up?
- Uh, oh.

Oh, this, my, my book just flew
all over the place

and-and he was helping me get
it, and it was quite the ordeal.

Well, I have to say,

this is just such a cozy little

cute snow-angel chalet out here.

You know, I am just gonna slay

those Prancer fireside poem
vibes, okay?

Oh? Uh, a-a-and did you two
finish your short stories?

I did. I did.
Like a fox to your inbox. What?

- Oh! Oh!
- Oh!

So, yeah, I was just gonna
take a long walk.

Uh, anybody, anybody,
um, wanna join me?

Oh, actually,
we have to get a basket

to the kids in town, so...

- Oh.
- We probably should get going.

- Oh, yeah.
- I'm-I'm...

I'm gonna take
the basket to the car.

- Okay.
- Where'd you leave it?

- Oh, there.
- Okay.

Well...
- Well...

Actually...

he is single, right?

Uh...

Tsk. Hm.

Hm?

Hm. Oh, my goodness, you are
cooking with Creole tonight.

You know, I could smell it
all the way across the chalet.

Yes, I am.

- Did you finish your homework?
- I did.

And, yeah, I have to admit,
I really enjoyed the assignment.

It has been a long time
since I've written

anything fun and fictional.

A toast to your imagination.

May it never grow too old

for a little fun
and a little bit of fiction.

Oh. Cheers. I like that.

Oh. Would you like to try
some of this?

Mm. Absolutely.
Yes, please, okay.

Okay. All right, here we go.

Mm, mm!

Oh, my gosh! That is heavenly.

- You like it?
- Oh, my G... Abs...

That is definitely
going into my cookbook.

Yes, Irving's
herb-crusted rib roast,

guaranteed to bring
your holiday guests

right up to your doorstep.

Thank you. You can have it.

And, um, if you don't mind,

what are some of your
featured cookbook cuisines?

Wow, um,

that's kind of a tough one,
but, uh, I'd have to...

Don't let me interrupt you.
Come on, come on.

Uh, let's see, I would have
to say that one of my favorites

is my crawfish
cornbread dressing,

my bourbon-butter sweet-potato
halves, all topped off with

a humongous slice of my praline
caramel-pumpkin loaf. Ha-ha!

Yes, you know, just a, just a
little tee nine chee bit, right?

You know, to kickstart
the hibernation. Hello.

I just decided.

I wanna cook that for the
Christmas Eve feast this year.

Is that all right?
Can I do that?

I'm-I'm honored,
but I, I, I, don't know

if I'll be able to stay
for Christmas Eve.

Oh, uh, that's okay.

You can invite your husband,
boyfriend, wife up here.

I appreciate that,
but I actually

don't have any of those. Yeah.

Well, I was married once,
just many moons ago,

to a man whose name
shall not be repeated.

And what-what about you?
Any love on the mountain?

No. Nah, well, I mean, uh,
not since my wife left us.

Ah, it's, I don't know,
it's just not something

that I wanted to pursue.

Oh, okay.

But I do hate to cook for myself
alone, so a lot of times

I'll book discounted rates
to, uh, you know,

get warm bodies up here.

Cheers to a full house
this Christmas.

Full house this Christmas.

Hey, guys!

- Hey, you're back.
- Hey!

- How was the drop?
- The kids loved it.

And we even stayed
for a little of the rehearsal.

- Aww.
- Ugh.

I remember playing
the Ghost of Christmas Future

when I was a kid.
I need to recreate that look.

Ooh! Maybe I should even do that
for Christmas Eve?

Yes, oh, please.
Oh, this I have to see.

So what have you all been up to?
Did you finish your shorts?

We did, and we decided
to reward ourselves

with a little hot toddy teatime.

- Oh?
- Would either of you like one?

- I would. You?
- Uh, well...

I'd love to, but I can't.

I actually need to get started
on reading those shorts

before dinner, but if you'll
excuse me. Um, have fun.

Aww!
- See ya.

So, Olive, tell us everything
about the musical

that you're almost done writing.

Uh, Keifer says
it's Christmas-themed?

It is.

Ooh, we plan to open on Broadway
next year.

It's called
Sleigh Belles Of The Ball.

Here you go.
- Oh, thank you.

You're welcome. It's about these
three very different sisters

all competing
for the love of this

salt-of-the-Earth-type
groundskeeper

who works on the family ranch,
at Christmas time!

Oh! I'm all into that, too. Yes!

You work so much in New York,

I'm surprised
you just don't live there.

Oh. Oh,
it's funny you should ask.

See, I have a place there, too,
but much like a songbird,

I prefer to fly south
for the winter.

Especially this year,
because I just went through

this awful off-Broadway breakup,
and am now totally single.

Oh, no. So sorry to hear that.

Oh, don't be.

Oh, it was all my undoing.
Anyway, I'm fine.

I've met more than enough
catches during my migration.

- Is that so now?
Mm-hmm.

- I just need to pick one.
- Well, good for you.

Who doesn't love
a little Christmas romance

at a winter retreat?

I'll cheers to that.
- Cheers.

Cheers.

Cheers.
- Yes.

Good morning,
early-bird bookworm.

Mm, morning.

Wow. Halfway through
my second book. Impressive.

What can I say? I mean,
Maya takes my mornings, too.

Oh.
Reindeer Romances.

"The tale of the little male
reindeer pining for the love

of the most beautiful
and regal reindeer of them all."

Yup. Did you enjoy it?

I did.
- Huh.

But I did have some issues

with her side of the same story.

There was a few places
that were off.

Yeah? How so?

I think
she's a lot more vulnerable

than you've made her out to be.

I mean, maybe she loves
to roam ahead of the herd

because she's been hurt
and afraid to open up again.

Mm.

Well, it is my first time
writing from the POV

of a complex lady reindeer,

so I appreciate any additional
insight you could give.

It's hard to open yourself up
to love again

when you've lost the person
you love the most.

My mom was everything to me.

And I lost her and my fiance...

seems like
in the blink of an eye.

You know, I know what it's like
to lose people you love

in the blink of an eye.

I lost my parents
at the same time as well.

But if you choose
not to love again,

we're only missing out
on the very thing

that makes life worth living
to start.

You're a lot sweeter than
I originally pegged you to be.

There's something about you
that's just comfortable...

except when
you're trying to be funny.

It's been nice having you.

It's been nice being here.

But look, there's something
that I wanted to talk--

Look, I know, I know
you're a fan of my mom

and that that's the real reason
you came.

It's okay.
You know, it's a good reason.

Right, but I wanted to ask if...

if-if you're okay with it,
I-I don't know if,

if I maybe write a bio or
a piece about your mom's legacy.

We'd need to discuss it
some more,

but I think that if anyone
would be good at sharing

how wonderful she was,
you'd be a good fit.

You've reached Tracy.

Leave me a message.

Trace. Hey, it's, uh, Levi.

I-I just wanted to say
that this isn't the year

for this whole retrospect.

I have so many amazing things
to share

and it's just not
the right time right now.

Things, they move
a little slower up here

and I'm actually learning
to be thankful for that.

Anyway, look, I'm-I'm sorry.

And I understand if you don't
wanna commission me anymore

for leaving you hanging
like this,

but I really hope you'll let me
have another shot next year.

All right, um, well,
call me back when you can.

Oh. Wonder what that was about,
do you think?

No idea.

Wow, those look amazing!

That's homemade cinnamon Graham.

That tastes even better
than it looks.

A little bit of mallow magic.
Please enjoy.

- Yes.
- Ooh. Oh.

- Oh. You sound so cold.

- Ooh, I am a little bit.
- I got you. I got you.

Oh. Thanks. Such a gentleman.

Uh, and-and we can pass
this candy cane

for whoever would like
to go first.

- Okay, I'll go!
- All right.

Okay. Um, all right, okay. Okay.

- So, my poem is called Imagine.
Ah.

"Imagine a place
where wild things are,

imagine this place,
imagine how far.

Imagine falling down
a white rabbit's hole,

only to find out
it has swallowed you whole.

Imagine mining through caves
with dwarves never seen,

or diving with scaly mermaids

in lagoons of deep green.

Imagine Father Christmas,

Jack Frost and me,

calling kids upon a sleigh.

Hey, kid, come to this world
and see!

Imagine riding

the largest long-gone dinosaur

and finding out
that your imagination

is but a key without a door..."

- Wow. Nice job.
- Amazing.

All right, all right,
all right, uh, who's next?

- You.
- I'm not going after that.

- No way! Nope!
- Oh, come on!

- And, uh, Levi, your turn.
- Yeah.

Uh. I'll hold your mallow
for you.

Let's go.
Come on, somebody's got to go.

- Come on.

There you go.
Take your candy cane.

Ooh.

Um, so my poem
is called Blue For You.

"There was once the black to run
my hand through above your neck,

and the brown gaze
that pierced me

from across our crowded parties.

But there was a blue tint
to everything you wore...

blue even if it
didn't have blue,

because in my eyes
you were always a little blue.

My heart used to tell me
all lies.

Your life is full.
Your job is full.

Your heart is full.

Now I know my life is too light,

my job is too easy,
my heart is too empty.

But now they are all blue
to me, too.

There is blue
consuming the empty space

where you used to stand
next to me,

covered in colors, but blue,
and glowing from head to toe,

There is blue on the walls
where our love once hung

in pictures of you and me.

There is even blue noise in the
sounds of our favorite songs,

unfamiliar now and harsh,

And there's blue in my eyes.

All I can see...

is that I'm empty without you."

Well, uh, that was beautiful.

Thank you.

- Oh.
- Ooh. Uh, who's next?

- Sharon?
- Uh, oh, um, okay.

Fine, 'cause I sure enough
do not wanna go last.

- You got this.
- Here. Can you hold that for me?

- Sure.
- All right.

All right, here we go. Okay.

And just how did you know
that my favorite color is blue,

aside from powder pink?

- Oh. Wow. Okay.

Uh, what's all this?

Well, I tried to find the best
that I could find in town.

They didn't have a lot
of Creole options,

but I did buy everything
that I could find.

You did say that you wanted
to make my cookbook menu

for the Christmas Eve feast,
right?

- Yes, I did.
- Okay, well...

I figured I've still got
so much work left to do

on the cookbook,
that if it's okay with you,

we would just jump
right around in there

and try to perfect
some of these recipes together.

But the only problem is
is that there weren't a lot

of Creole spices left in town.

Well, you're in luck
because I pre-ordered

just about everything
that you're gonna need.

Look at you.

My secret sauce.

Okay, well, I guess this means
it was meant to be.

I guess it was.

We got our work cut out

for us then.

Wait, so does that mean
that you're gonna

stay through
the Christmas holidays?

I, I suppose so.

I really don't have anywhere
else to be, so why not?

Good morning, everyone.

Oh. Has anyone seen Levi?

Uh, I saw him this morning.

He was headed into town,
I believe.

Oh, okay.

Uh, well then, today is

Jack Frost's Freehand Challenge.

Now that we have the creative
cocoa flowing from within,

you get to focus on yourselves
today, no matter what that is.

Now, I know that Sharon is
working hard on her cookbook

and, Olive,
you have songs to write,

and, of course,
Mitchell is writing

our next blockbuster
action flick.

So take the time to do you,
and we can discuss

the New Year's newsletter when
Levi gets back. Sound good?

- Yeah.
Great.

Okay, great.
Well, I will let you get to it.

♪ Hey ♪

We gonna put one and two.

Wait, wait, wait.
What-what-what are you doing?

- That's, it's just too much.
It's two tablespoons.

- That's the recipe.
- No, no!

- It's just too much. Yes.
- You wanna taste it?

Come on.

- Okay.
- There.

Try it. What do you think?
It's perfect, right?

- Um...
- What are you...

- Now it's perfect.

Okay.

♪ Eight to eighty
we're all just kids ♪

♪ We can't wait till the 25th ♪

♪ It's time now ♪

♪ For the countdown
to Christmas ♪

♪ Right now it's the countdown
to Christmas ♪

Hm, I think I know what
someone's putting in her

New Year's newsletter besides
wanting to finish her book.

What are you talking about?

Come on. Spill it.

- You two kissed?

Have you and Mitchell kissed?

No. I'm keeping it professional.

I'm not gonna ask him out
until the week's over.

Hm, well, then me, too,
I am not asking Levi out

until he asks me out first.

Aww, Mik, I'm so happy for you.

I haven't seen you like this
since... ever.

Well, I am just ecstatic
that the second half of my book

is finally coming to me.

Uh-uh. Right.
Oh, yeah, that's all.

Oh, yeah. Sure.
Oh, that's it. Yeah.

- Okay.

Oh, by the way, did he, like,
ever ask you the questions

he said he wanted
to pick your brain about?

Nope, I mean,
he asked me questions, sure,

but not like
an interrogation. Why?

No, no reason,
I just, I heard him on the phone

talking about some project
he was commissioned for.

But it's really
none of my business.

I was just wondering.

And what are you
working on over there?

I'm actually just finishing up
notes on Mitchell's script.

You know what, it's really
quite good, actually.

And I'm not even saying that
in a biased way.

Well then, I guess you'll have
to go tell him the good news

when you're done
working on it, huh?

Oh. If I must, I must.

Need some help with that?

- Oh, thank you kindly.
- Yeah.

It's gonna get
a lot chillier tonight.

- Oh, yeah?
- Might even see some snow.

Hm, perfect way to start
Christmas Eve.

- You bet.
- Yeah.

So I, um, finished your script.

- And?
- Well, you were right.

Technically there were some issues.

I mean, there's some
major structural flaws,

and a couple of plot holes
here and there

that need fleshing out,
and if I'm being honest,

the story is a bit formulaic
as well.

But all that aside,

the dialogue was great,

the characters
are rich, deep, complex,

and more so than anything else,
very likable.

And where the story
sits in a formula, God, you went

above and beyond to break the
mold with your hero's journey.

- Do you really mean that?
- Yeah.

I mean, I just thought,
the world's first gay superhero.

Am I crazy?
The world's not ready for that!

You know what, I thought
the exact same thing at first,

but I think they are.

Are you seriously
telling me you're

one chapter
from the finish line?

- That's what I'm telling you.
Oh, Mikaela.

You just made all
my Christmas wishes come true!

And here I thought
the retreat was going to be

a complete waste.

I guess what they say is true.

A mother always knows best, huh?

I guess so,
unless it's my mother.

- Merry Christmas, Geeg.
- Merry Christmas!

Hey, mister!
Where have you been all day?

Oh, I just had a few gifts
to pick up in town

for my fellow writers.

Oh, I see.

Well, you missed most of

Jack Frost's Freehand Session.

Ah, it's fine, I'm actually

all caught up
in my personal projects.

But I was thinking of a new one
if you might be game for it.

Oh, yeah? What's that?

I'd love to edit your new book.

I mean, it-it would be
an honor, really.

You did say your original editor
backed out recently, right?

Uh, I-I-I did, yeah,
but, um...

Wow. I mean, that's just...

It would just mean us spending
a lot of time together.

I mean, sounds perfect to me.

Um...

Can I, can I take a moment
to think about it?

Take all the time you need.
I'm not going anywhere.

All right, who is ready to play

'Twas The Treasure Hunt
Before Christmas?

Ooh, me, me, me!

All right, so, um, how exactly
do we play this again?

There's three notes
folded inside,

each one a clue to where
Secret Santa's stockings hide.

Whomever is brave enough
to reach in first

will pick a partner,
for better or for worse.

- Who's gonna be first?
- I'll go first.

- I love the enthusiasm.
- Okay.

- Oh.

- All right.
- Uh, stop, don't.

- What do we do now?
- Now you go find it.

- All right.

- All right, who's next?
- I'll go.

Um, all righty.

- You. Come on.
- Thank God.

All right, um, so, uh...

- You think?
- We-we could try it.

We'll give it a try.
All right. And we're off!

All right, there's one left
saved for the two of you.

Okay.

- Irv, do you mind?
- Sure.

Thanks. Thanks, man.

- Okay, let's go.
- Let's go.

Ooh. Whoa.

Okay, I'm gonna check in here.
No.

Why don't we check
the secret bookshelf?

- Secret bookshelf?
- Yeah.

What?

All right, come on, watch your
step, careful, all right.

Okay, um... Gosh, I don't know.

Maybe when this thing
says loft, do you...

Didn't actually mean the loft.
Okay, just... Uh...

I-I don't know.
What-what do you think?

Where else do you think
it could be?

Hello?

Oh, it has to be my
mother's secret garden.

- Hm.

Levi, did you do this?

I figured if you're going
to revive her retreat,

you might wanna revive her
favorite place to write, too.

Levi, I...
I don't know what to say.

- D-did my dad...
- Yeah.

I talked to him this morning
and he said I could.

He said you were ready,
and if you were, he was, too.

This is amazing, you know,
it's even more magical

than I remember it
when I was a kid.

And where did you find
two turtledoves?

Oh, um, you know,
Santa's secret stockings.

- Duh!
- Oh. Is that so?

- Mm-hmm.
- Wait, there it is!

Oh!

Ah!

All right.

- You do the honors.
- Hm.

Mistletoe?
Jeez, dad. How original.

You know, the moment
kinda writes itself already.

Your piece on her mother

certainly won't write itself,
though.

- I'm sorry?
- I'm sorry, Mikaela.

And I'm sorry
I read your journal,

but, honestly, I would've
expected more from you.

What is she talking about,
piece?

Look, you know
when I asked yesterday

if I could at some point

write a bio or a piece
on your mom's legacy?

Yeah, but I said
I would think about it.

Right, and when you said that,

I knew it wasn't
the right time, so I--

I-it wasn't the right time
for what?

What is in that journal?

Look, Mikaela,

when I first came
to your workshop,

I was contracted to do
a retrospect on your mother.

A little, a little holiday piece
in The Happy Angeleno.

And at the time it wasn't
something that I thought

I could write unless you answer
some questions.

So you had to get close to me

so you could get the real
inside scoop on her life.

Mikaela, you know
that site isn't some tabloid,

some, some gossip.
And I'm not even a reporter.

We just wanted to share
some fascinating facts

about your mom's legacy
because so many people love her,

and so many people wanna know
so much more about her.

We thought that it would be
something special for everyone

to hear and to enjoy
during the holidays.

But it wasn't
your story to tell!

I know, I know.

And that's why
I called my boss yesterday

to tell her
I couldn't do the piece.

- And that it just wasn't--
- And that what?

Oh, and that you had fallen
for her daughter

after using her to get
into the retreat for your piece?

I mean, w-was any of this real?

Of course.
Of course it was, Mikaela.

- I have fallen for you--
- No.

You are a great liar.

So how can I believe
anything you say is real?

Oh, my God.

You know, you should be
a fiction writer

because you definitely
had me fooled there.

Oh.

- So cute.

- Don't.
- Mikaela?

- Excuse me.
- What happened?

I don't know.

She didn't come down
for breakfast.

Right, when her mom left us,

she, uh, didn't eat for a week.
Couldn't get her to move.

She just sat and stared out
her window and...

I don't expect
this is gonna be any different.

I finished my songs yesterday.

Was this before or after
you blew up the entire retreat

because you were upset
over your little crush?

In her defense,
he was lying to us.

I'm guessing it's a long shot
to get you to eat,

but Sharon's recipes
are even better than mine.

Thanks, daddy.

- There you go.
- Mm-hmm.

You come out here
to talk to her?

Yeah. I guess.

Not much to say, though.

Maybe this was all
just a big mistake.

Oh, don't say that, honey.

This is some of the most fun
I've had since your mom passed.

Having all these amazing people
out here,

they didn't feel like
my normal guests

that I was giving a hot meal to.

It started to feel
like... home again.

- Yeah, it did, didn't it?
- Mm-hmm.

And this guy Levi,

I think his feelings for you
are real.

When he showed up
at the crack of dawn

wanting to revive
your mother's secret garden?

You can't fake that, honey.

But that doesn't change
where his intentions were

from the start.

But is it so bad he wants

to tell your mother's story?

I mean, you and I haven't been
the best at doing her justice.

Yeah. I guess
you're right about that.

I don't know, it's just,

growing up,
mom was always in the spotlight.

And then when I grew up,
suddenly I was in the spotlight,

and, and nothing
ever felt sacred.

So when we lost her,

I just wanted to protect that,

just that little part of her,

that little part
that we had left.

Yeah, I guess it's okay
to wanna protect

the little parts in between

and how hard it was
for you and me in the end.

But your mom's life
was so much more

than what she gave you and me.

She gave so much to so many.

Kind of like you're doing now.

All of those things?

The gifts that
you and your mother were given,

they're not just for you and me.

Thank you, dad,
for being the best.

Hm.

- Thanks, dad.
- Of course.

Mikaela?

- Hey.
Hey.

I'm sorry for being me,
sometimes.

But I think you should see this.

Okay.

Cheers to the retreat!

To the retreat!

So, what are the chances you
might come out again next year?

To write your next cookbook,
perhaps?

Well, I told Mikaela
when I arrived

that, uh, I would retire here.

So I'd say
it was very probable.

Oh.

No, but I really
do love Broadway.

- So I'm so excited. I know.
Well, I am too.

So you can come anytime.
I can't wait, it's...

Look at the two.
Look at Mitchell.

So, you two gonna write this
script together now or what?

Uh, I think so.

Keifer's just really good
with details in a way

that I am not.

I also think I might
be moving to Los Angeles soon.

I just have to figure out
a real job first.

Oh, don't worry about that.
We'll help you find something.

Oh, well,
I can help you with a job.

I'm looking for an
LA assistant myself right now

for when I go back to New York
in the spring

and I think that you would
just be perfect for it.

- Seriously?
- Yeah.

You say the words,
and it's yours.

- Just like Christmas magic!

See? Told you
this is how it works.

It's all about who you know.

Well, then to who you know.

- Cheers.
- Cheers.

Oh, and what are the chances

we can get you to sing
your new song for us?

Oh, please!

It would be an honor.

- Yes!
- Oh, yay!

- Now.
- Okay. All right.

♪ Counting down the days
for the seasons to change ♪

♪ I feel a love that's true
it makes the heart feel new ♪

♪ Years can fade away
but the memories will stay ♪

♪ No matter how far how apart ♪

♪ I know love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will always ♪

♪ Find a way ♪

So...

why are you back here, Levi?

Well, I didn't come back
for my folder,

which I honestly was planning
to shred when I got back.

You were just planning
to shred it?

Yeah, I was,
until your dad asked me

to come back 'cause I forgot it.

Oh.

So my father is the reason

that you returned.

It's only short-lived, I swear.

That is, unless
my one true Christmas wish

to be forgiven is in the cards.

So, you had one wish,
to be let in to the retreat,

and now you have another wish,

to be forgiven
and to be able to stay?

I never said anything
about staying,

but considering the snow
that's coming in,

that might be nice as well.

I read the retrospect.

Old-school
messy handwriting, too.

Impressive.

My mother would have been proud
of the story

you're trying to tell
about her life.

To be honest, I'm just sad
it's taken me this long

to be able to share it, too.

Look, I'm sorry for taking
advantage of that trust.

The things you shared to me
about you, her, the retreat...

Those were stories
that needed to be told.

So thank you
for bringing them back to life.

For bringing me
back to life, Levi.

Hey.

You finishing your book,
that's all you.

I'm in awe of you, Mikaela.

By the way,
did you, did you finish it?

- I did.
- Oh, yeah?

Okay, so look,
I got one question

because a lot of people
are gonna be asking...

Mm-hmm.

Did Maya finally find love?

She did.

And it was with that
pain-in-the-butt Jerome

that she never got along with.

The one that challenged her,

the one that made her
challenge herself.

But I am glad
that Maya finally got

her happily ever after.

So what about you?
Are you gonna find yours?

How about we start

by going to your grams'
crazy holiday party tomorrow?

And then, I don't know...

figure out the rest
as we go along.

I like that. Yeah.

Merry Christmas, Mikaela.

Merry Christmas.

You want some?

♪ Counting down the days
for the seasons to change ♪

♪ I feel a love that's true
it makes the heart feel new ♪

♪ Years can fade away
but the memories will stay ♪

♪ No matter how far how apart ♪

♪ I know love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will always ♪

♪ Find a way ♪

♪ I see the guiding light
within the winter's night ♪

♪ I found
what I was looking for ♪

♪ But almost lost much more ♪

♪ But now I see you there
with so much life to share ♪

♪ And no matter
how far how apart ♪

♪ I know love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will find a way ♪

♪ Love will always ♪

♪ Find a way ♪

♪ Counting down the days
for the seasons to change ♪

♪ I feel a love that's true ♪

♪ I found it all in you ♪